Nathan Mackinnon and Avalanche cruise past Red Wings

The Avalanche showed no signs of struggle at all, getting out to an early 2-0 lead in the first period. Veteran defenseman Brent Burns scored his ninth goal of the season seven minutes into the game while MacKinnon added another just a few minutes later. The Avalanche would score two more goals in the second period thanks to Brock Nelson and MacKinnon scoring his second. Parker Kelly then putting the finishing touches on in the third with a goal of his own.

Mackenzie Blackwood stood tall in net, stopping all 28 shots to achieve his third shutout of the season, and his first since Nov. 26.  On the other hand, the Red Wings pulled John Gibson after allowing his fourth goal of the game on just his 17th shot faced. Cam Talbot finished the game saving three of four shots.

The win was much needed for the Avalanche, as they have only won three of their past nine games. As for the Red Wings, it is now their third loss in a row and sit at third in the Eastern Conference standings.